Meta to update commercial terms for AI training access

Meta is set to implement a major update to its commercial terms, effective October 30. This modification will require business accounts to permit Meta to use their linked website content for training its AI models, rather than just their social media posts. This means businesses will not have the option to opt out, and if they disagree, they are advised to stop using Meta's services.

Why it matters

This change in Meta's commercial terms has far-reaching implications for companies, particularly news publishers. Many might have considered charging Meta substantial fees for access to their articles for AI training. However, with this new policy, Meta could sidestep those costs by gaining free access to that content.

What we know

Legal experts have raised alarms about this decision, as it could pave the way for Meta to obtain broad permissions to use content without compensation, regardless of the outcome of ongoing legal disputes, such as those between news organizations and OpenAI regarding fair use. This could alter the dynamics of how companies engage with platforms like Meta in the future.

What remains unclear

It is still unclear how news publishers and other businesses will respond to these new terms, or if there will be a collective effort to resist the implementation of this policy. Additionally, it is unknown whether Meta will consider any form of compensation or collaboration with the affected businesses.